Zambia Birding Safaris

Zambia boasts a rich variety of birdlife, creating the perfect setting for travelers seeking an exhilarating birding safari. Among the most elusive birds in Africa, the Shoebill can also be spotted in this vibrant continent.

Zambia is an exhilarating destination in Africa for birders. With a rich variety of ecosystems, you can discover more than 700 species waiting to be explored. The ideal moment for birdwatching often occurs right before the summer rains, as this period brings an influx of various migrant species to the area.

The Central African Plateau is home to a diverse array of avifauna, thanks to its multitude of ecosystems. Explore a variety of incredible birding destinations, such as Lochinvar National Park, Bangweulu Swamps, South Luangwa National Park, and Kafue. Another fantastic destination is the Chimfunshi Wildlife Orphanage, featuring dams that draw in a diverse range of species.

Lochinvar National Park

The Lochinvar National Park is known as a premier destination for witnessing an impressive array of water birds in remarkable numbers. Countless events unfold during the summer months, especially throughout the rainy season. The park invites exploration, but be prepared to embrace self-sufficiency as there are no serviced campsites available.

This secluded reserve stands apart from many areas of Zambia, featuring expansive wetlands bordering the Kafue flats. A vast lagoon takes center stage here. It serves as a sanctuary for the Kafue Lechwe, which thrive in their thousands. The park welcomes visitors to explore its vast landscapes, where Buffalo roam freely. While there are no other perilous creatures, guests can enjoy walking through the area, though vehicles must remain on designated paths.

Exploring the avian wonders of Lochinvar

The park is home to more than 420 unique species of birds. This location offers a fantastic opportunity to observe the rare Wattle Crane, both Greater and Lesser Flamingos, and witness the thrilling aerial displays of the African Skimmers. Explore the fascinating world of ducks, where you will encounter a variety of species like the Whistling Duck and the Fulvous Duck, each with its own unique charm. There are numerous wader species to explore and enjoy as well.

The park offers more than just waterfowl for twitchers; it boasts a remarkable array of over 50 species of raptors, including the majestic Black Sparrow hawks and the swift Peregrine falcons. Stay alert for the Narina Trogon and yellow-throated Sandgrouse.
South Luangwa National Park is a place brimming with excitement and exploration.

One of the most inviting places for incredible birdwatching is South Luangwa National Park, where you can encounter approximately 400 of the 732 bird species that inhabit Zambia. Birding here reaches its peak at the close of the dry season, as the lagoons start to shrink, ensnaring fish and amphibians, which sets the stage for a delightful banquet for waders. There are various exciting places to stay.

Exploring the avian wonders of South Luangwa

A thrilling moment will be witnessing countless red-faced yellow-billed storks, marabous, saddle bills, and herons indulging in a feast. The park stands out as a remarkable destination to witness the elegant and graceful Crowned Crane, often found near the salt pans.
As the wet season approaches, the skies come alive with the arrival of intra-African migrants and palearctic travelers from Europe, such as swifts, storks, and bee eaters. One of the most stunning sights is the vibrant carmine bee-eaters that come together in their hundreds to nest along the steep banks of the river. Ground Hornbills, Heuglin’s Robins, and fish eagles are all frequently encountered. Bangweulu Swamps – embark on a quest to find the elusive Shoebill.

These swamps are a designated Ramsar Site and part of a proposed IBA (Important Bird Area), teeming with the thrill of discovery as they shelter one of birders’ most coveted treasures – the rare and elusive Shoebill. Many bird enthusiasts will embark on a journey to the swamps just to catch a glimpse of the Shoebill.

The ideal time to explore is during the vibrant wet season in summer, from November to March.

Yet, the swamps also harbor other unique species such as the Swamp fly-catcher and Marsh Tchagra. Visitors can encounter Pratincoles and Crowned Cranes, along with a variety of ducks, geese, pelicans, and flamingos. Among the remarkable sights, one can often spot Slatey and Black egrets.